‘It’s a huge honour to be named player of the year… and I want to thank everyone who voted for me,’ Kante said in a statement on the league’s website.

Kante has scored one league goal (against Manchester United) and provided one assist this season, but it is his ability to break up play, shield Chelsea’s defence and launch attacks that has been key for the team.

‘I work hard in training, I try to give my best and I work with so many very good players; that’s why we won the league two times,’ Kante added.

‘We played many good games but we won 5-0 against Everton, which was a very beautiful game, and also my goal against Manchester United (in a 4-0 win). It is always good to score and I am happy for these two games.’